Linden Police Launch Holiday DWI Crackdown

LINDEN – The Linden Police Department will join law enforcement agencies across the country that will be looking out for impaired drivers during the holiday “Over the Limit, Under Arrest” crackdown.

“When you’re planning your holiday festivities, be it Christmas or New Year’s Eve parties, be sure the plan includes a designated, sober driver,” said Linden Police Traffic Bureau Commander Michael Babulski. “When you drive after drinking, you not only endanger yourself and your passengers, but everyone on the road.”

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Until Jan. 2, 2011, local officers will join agencies statewide to step up patrols, which will be funded by the NJ Division of Highway Traffic Safety.

In New Jersey, a motorist can be arrested for drunk driving with a .08 or higher blood alcohol content. Drunk driving penalties include court costs, fines, increased car insurance rates and may include jail time.

“Drunk driving can cost more than just money,” said Babulski. Last year 185 people were killed as a result of alcohol-related crashes in the state, which is 31% of the 385 traffic fatalities. “That is the ultimate price to pay for a bad decision.”

Drunk driving crackdowns are conducted throughout the year, especially during holidays and high travel times. Last year’s crackdown in Linden resulted in 17 driving while intoxicated arrests during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday.